OBJECTIVES: I. Compare the efficacy of ZD9331 with or without topotecan in patients with refractory or recurrent ovarian epithelial, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer. II. Compare the tolerability of these regimens in these patients. III. Compare the objective tumor response rate, progression-free survival, and disease control in patients treated with these regimens. IV. Compare the quality of life of patients treated with these regimens.